LAPD's planning pays off; peaceful May Day

By Joel RubinThe Los Angeles Times

LOS ANGELES — Hours before protesters kicked off pro-immigration marches Thursday, dozens of high-ranking Los Angeles Police Department officers gathered at a high-tech command center for a final planning session. In the middle of the meeting, Police Chief William J. Bratton unexpectedly stepped into the room, arms crossed, a stern look on his face.

"May 1st last year was an embarrassment for this department. It was the most embarrassing experience I've had in 38 years of policing," he said, breaking the silence. "It will not be repeated today."